asked the Minister for Justice the reason Garda strength in Border areas has been reduced.
Written Answers. - Garda Strength.
247.
The detailed deployment of Garda manpower is a matter primarily for the Garda authorities and the strength assigned to the various stations, including those in Border areas, is reviewed from time to time to take account of changing needs and circumstances.
Following a review of the police needs of various areas, the Commissioner recently arranged for the redeployment of up to 100 existing members of the Force throughout the country to take account of current needs and with a view to making optimum use of available resources. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the local divisional officers are taking steps to ensure that the level of patrolling and the operation of check-points in Border areas are not reduced in any way.
The Garda needs of Border areas will again be reviewed according as the additional manpower now in training and being recruited becomes available for assignment to the various centres.